Treatment

Early diagnosis is very important. Most of the effects of hypothyroidism are easy to reverse.

Thyroxine is usually given to treat hypothyroidism. Once the child starts taking this medicine, blood tests are regularly done to make sure thyroid levels are in a normal range.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Getting diagnosed early usually leads to a good outcome. Newborns who are diagnosed and treated in the first month or so usually have normal intelligence.

Untreated mild hypothyroidism can lead to severe mental retardation and growth retardation. The nervous system goes through important development during the first few months after birth. A lack of thyroid hormone can cause damage that cannot be reversed.

Possible Complications

Mental retardation

Growth retardation

Heart problems

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if:

You feel your infant shows signs or symptoms of hypothyroidism

You are pregnant and have been exposed to antithyroid drugs or procedures

Prevention

If a pregnant women takes radioactive iodine for thyroid cancer, the thyroid gland may be destroyed in the developing fetus. Infants whose mothers have taken such medicines should be observed carefully after birth for signs of hypothyroidism.

Most states require a routine screening test to check all newborns for hypothyroidism. See also: Newborn screening tests